Pre-Eclampsia

Question 1

After how many weeks is pre-eclampsia seen?

Answer 1

20 weeks gestation.

Question 2

What is the classic triad of pre-eclampsia?

Answer 2

1. Hypertension
2. Proteinuria (>0.3g/24 hours)
3. Oedema (Though this is not always included in the triad)

Question 3

What does pre-eclampsia predispose towards?

Answer 3

1. Fetal:
   
   • Faetl pimerttuary
   • Iarittuenrne gwroth ratiedtroan
2. Epiclsama , , .
3. Hgmarhreaoe
   
   • Pealtancl atbuporin
   • Inrta-amonibadl
   • Inrta-cerarebl
4. Cidarac frialue (Pulmonary oedema, pedal oedema etc)
5. Mtlui-oargn firlaue

Question 4

What are the risk factors for pre-eclampsia?

Answer 4

• >40 years
• Nulliparity
• Multiple pregnancy
• BMI >30kg/m²
• Diabetes Mellitus
• Pregnancy interval of more than 10 years.
• FH of pre-eclampsia
• PMH of pre-eclampsia
• Pre-existing vascular disease such as HTN or Renal disease

Question 5

Name some features of severe pre-eclampsia.

Answer 5

• Hypertension: typically >170/110mmHg
• Proteinuria: dipstick ++/+++
• Headache
• Visual disturbance
• Papilloedema
• RUQ/Epigastric pain
• Hyperreflexia
• Platelet count <100 * 10⁶/L, abnormal liver enzymes or HELLP syndrome.

Question 6

What is the management for pre-eclampsia?

Answer 6

1. Treat blood pressure if >160/110 mmHg (but many will treat if lower)
2. First line: Labetalol
3. Nifedipine or Hydralazine can also be used.
4. Delivery of baby.